Name: Moist and Delicious Apple Cider Cake Perfect for Fall Gatherings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (Be meticulous in measuring.); 1 tbsp Baking Powder (Crucial for rise.); 1 tsp Salt (Enhances flavors.); 1 tbsp Cinnamon (Warm autumn spice.); 1 tsp Nutmeg (Fresh nutmeg elevates flavor.); 1 cup Unsalted Butter (At room temperature.); 1 cup Brown Sugar (Deepens sweetness.); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Essential sweetness.); 3 large Eggs (Room temperature.); 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor.); 1 cup Apple Cider (Fresh is best.); 1 cup Demerara or Turbinado Sugar (Crunchy topping.); 1/4 cup Salted Butter (Adds contrast.)

As the crisp autumn air rolls in, I can almost hear the crunch of leaves underfoot and the faint scent of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen. This Apple Cider Donut Cake is my go-to recipe for embracing the season’s spirit. Infused with rich apple cider and warm spices, it brings a touch of nostalgia to any gathering with family and friends. Not only is this cake a quick delight to whip up, but its moist texture and sweet cinnamon sugar glaze transform it into a crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply indulging on a cozy Sunday afternoon, this cake makes every moment feel special. Curious about how to bring the flavors of autumn right to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why is this Apple Cider Cake a Must-Make?

Nostalgic Flavors: This Apple Cider Cake brings the essence of fall into your kitchen with its cozy blend of spices and rich apple cider.
Unbelievably Moist: The secret to its texture lies in the combination of fresh cider and simple ingredients that create a tender crumb everyone loves.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for gatherings, it’s a surefire hit that pairs well with warm beverages, making it ideal for cozy family events or festive celebrations.
Effortless Preparation: Quickly whip this up without fuss—it’s a straightforward recipe that even beginner bakers can master.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or alongside a glass of your favorite cider for a delightful treat!
For more apple-inspired goodies, check out my lovely Cinnamon Apple Cake or consider the delightful chew of Apple Snickerdoodles Deliciously.

Apple Cider Cake Ingredients

• Gather everything you need for a cozy fall treat!

For the Cake Base

All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the backbone of the cake; be meticulous in measuring for perfect results.
Baking Powder – This leavening agent is crucial for the cake’s rise and fluffy texture.
Salt – A pinch enhances all the flavors beautifully.
Cinnamon – Brings that warm spice that screams autumn; feel free to swap with pumpkin spice for a twist!
Nutmeg – Complements the cinnamon perfectly; using fresh nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile.
Unsalted Butter – Adds richness; make sure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
Brown Sugar – Deepens the sweetness and moisture; light brown sugar works if you’re in a pinch.
Granulated Sugar – Contributes essential sweetness and helps form a crust on the cake.
Eggs – Provides moisture and a sturdy structure; use room temperature eggs for blending ease.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall deliciousness of the cake.
Apple Cider – The star of the show for a sweet and tangy flavor; fresh cider is best for this Apple Cider Cake.

For the Glaze

Demerara or Turbinado Sugar – Perfect for a crunchy topping; regular granulated sugar is an acceptable substitute.
Salted Butter – Used in the glaze for that lovely contrast to the sweetness.

Now that you’re fully prepped, it’s time to create your cozy autumn masterpiece!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Cider Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you grease a 12-cup bundt pan thoroughly with cooking spray or butter. This step is essential to ensure your delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake slides out smoothly after baking. You can also lightly dust the pan with flour, if desired, to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until evenly combined. This blend will provide the flavor depth needed for your Apple Cider Cake. Make sure to break up any clumps in the flour to achieve a smooth batter later on.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a stand mixer, beat the softened unsalted butter along with brown sugar and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes. The sugar should be fully dissolved, and the mixture should appear pale in color. This step creates the rich base for your cake, enhancing its moistness.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs to the butter mixture one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Then, pour in the vanilla extract and mix just until combined. The batter should appear smooth and creamy, ready to embrace the other delightful flavors that will come in the next steps.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually mix in the whisked dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the apple cider. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until the batter is smooth and well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help maintain the tender crumb of your Apple Cider Donut Cake.

Step 6: Pour the Batter and Bake
Pour the thick batter into the prepared bundt pan, smoothing the top with a spatula if necessary. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will soon fill with the warm, inviting scent of fall.

Step 7: Prepare the Cider Glaze
While the cake bakes, make the cider glaze by simmering apple cider in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens, about 10-15 minutes. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in the salted butter until melted and combined. This glaze will add a delightful sweetness to the finished Apple Cider Cake.

Step 8: Glaze the Cake After Baking
After allowing the baked cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, carefully invert it onto a wire rack. While the cake is still warm, brush it generously with the cider glaze. Allow any excess glaze to drip off, then immediately coat the glazed cake with the cinnamon sugar mixture for a crunchy topping.

Step 9: Cool and Serve
Let the Apple Cider Donut Cake cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, ideally paired with a glass of cold cider or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The wonderful blend of flavors and textures in every bite will surely be a highlight for your fall gatherings!

What to Serve with Apple Cider Donut Cake

As the sweet aroma of this cake fills your kitchen, envision the perfect accompaniments that will elevate your fall gathering experience.

Warm Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts gently over the warm cake, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures and flavors.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel adds an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing the apple and spice flavors beautifully.
Spiced Hot Cider: Sipping on a fragrant cup of spiced hot cider alongside the cake draws out the cider notes and warms the soul.
Chai Tea: This comforting beverage brings cozy spices, harmonizing perfectly with the warm cinnamon and nutmeg in the cake.
Roasted Nuts: A mix of roasted pecans and walnuts offers a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor that complements the cake’s moist crumb.
Maple Glazed Donuts: For an indulgent treat, pair your slice with mini maple-glazed donuts, enhancing the autumnal sweetness.
Cheese Board: Include some sharp cheddar or creamy brie with seasonal fruits to balance the sweetness of the cake for a sophisticated twist.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: This popular fall drink brings together the festive flavors, making it an ideal pairing for sipping between bites of cake.
Apple Crisp: A warm bowl of apple crisp adds a contrasting crunchy texture to each bite, deepening the apple experience of your dessert situation.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Offer soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies for a nostalgic twist that appeals to both kids and adults alike!

Apple Cider Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to make this delightful Apple Cider Cake your own by experimenting with different ingredients and flavors!

Spiced Apple Juice: Substitute apple cider with spiced apple juice for a non-alcoholic variation that still captures the essence of fall. Each bite will remind you of cozy autumn afternoons.
Chopped Fruits: Add chopped apples or pears for a burst of juicy texture and flavor. The added fruit keeps each slice moist and delicious—perfect for a sharing moment with friends!
Nuts Galore: Fold in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an added crunch. Nuts not only enhance the texture, but they also bring a lovely nutty flavor that balances the sweetness of the cake.
Pumpkin Spice Twist: Swap the cinnamon for pumpkin spice to give the cake a different seasonal flair. It offers a delightful behind-the-scenes taste, reminiscent of classic autumnal treats.
Maple Syrup Infusion: Replace half of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a uniquely sweet twist. The maple flavor adds an inviting richness that brings warmth to any gathering!
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour for a gluten-free friendly version. It’s a simple swap that makes this cake accessible to everyone!
Extra Spice: Kick up the warmth by adding an extra pinch of nutmeg or cloves. This infusion adds depth and complexity, perfect for chilling evenings with a warm slice of cake.
Cream Cheese Glaze: For a twist on the glaze, mix cream cheese with a bit of cider and powdered sugar for a tangy finish. It elevates the cake and adds a creamy texture that’s absolutely scrumptious.

For even more apple-inspired treats, check out my Cinnamon Apple Cake or try the delightful Apple Snickerdoodles Deliciously.

Make Ahead Options

These Apple Cider Donut Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during fall gatherings! You can prepare the batter and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover the mixing bowl tightly to prevent oxidation. Alternatively, you can bake the cake ahead of time and store it, wrapped in plastic, at room temperature for up to 3 days; simply glaze it right before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven taste. If you want to store the cake for longer, freeze it without the glaze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and glaze while warm for a delightful treat that’s just as delicious!

Storage Tips for Apple Cider Cake

Room Temperature: You can keep the cake wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 5 days. This keeps it moist and delicious!

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, store the wrapped cake in the fridge for up to a week. It may dry out slightly, so bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Freezer: For ultimate freshness, freeze the unglazed Apple Cider Cake for up to 3 months. Once ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and glaze before enjoying.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or enjoy at room temperature for a cozy taste of fall!

Expert Tips for Apple Cider Cake

Butter Temperature: Ensure your unsalted butter is at room temperature for easy creaming. This will help achieve the right texture for your Apple Cider Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough cake, which we want to avoid!
Check Doneness Carefully: Test the cake with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, your Apple Cider Cake is perfectly baked. If it’s wet, give it a few more minutes.
Cooling Time: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it to avoid breakage. Patience pays off here!
Glaze Application: Brush the glaze on while the cake is still warm to ensure it sinks in and adds moisture without being overly sweet.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add a touch of maple extract to the batter for a unique twist on the classic Apple Cider Cake flavor!

Apple Cider Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of apple cider should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best results, use fresh apple cider, as it brings a sweet and tangy flavor that’s essential to the cake. Avoid using overly processed or shelf-stable options, as they can lack the depth of flavor needed for this delicious Apple Cider Cake.

How should I store leftover Apple Cider Cake?
You can keep the cake wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 5 days. This helps maintain its moist texture. If you prefer, you can store it in the refrigerator for about a week, although it may dry out a little. Remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best taste!

Can I freeze the Apple Cider Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze your unglazed Apple Cider Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Once thawed, glaze it before serving to restore its deliciously sweet topping.

What should I do if my cake is too dense or heavy?
If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Ensure that when you integrate the wet and dry ingredients, you mix just until combined. Another tip is to double-check your measurements, especially for the flour; too much can lead to a heavy texture. If these don’t resolve it, try gently folding the ingredients next time instead of beating them.

Is this Apple Cider Cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Yes! This recipe does not call for any nuts, making it safe for individuals with nut allergies. Just make sure to check that your other ingredients, like the butter and sugars, are produced in nut-free facilities to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I add other fruits or spices to the Apple Cider Cake?
Very! You can amp up the flavor by adding chopped apples or even some pecans for added texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, a hint of maple extract or ginger spice can provide unique twists that pair beautifully with the apple cider. Just remember to balance the moisture accordingly!